Leaders Support Stephanie

Randall Edwards, former State Treasurer: Stephanie will not hesitate to ask tough questions. She will hold the district to high financial standards to ensure our tax dollars best support our students.

Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read: I’m proud to support Stephanie Engelsman in her campaign for Portland School Board. Stephanie’s focus on improving literacy and promoting ways for students to be active and healthy have me excited to watch her make Portland’s public schools stronger. 

Educators Support Stephanie

Caryn Anderson, PPS Teacher and 2023 OnPoint Community Credit Union (Elementary) Teacher of the Year: I've had the great pleasure of knowing Steph Engelsman for several years as I was her daughters' teacher over the years and I highly recommend her for the PPS School Board position she is seeking. Steph is extremely passionate about public education and repeatedly goes above and beyond to ensure that students at all levels get the opportunity to achieve their potential. She never hesitates to volunteer her time and energy when needed and is so creative at finding resources from which to pull from, even when they may seem impossible to attain. Steph has an enthusiastic energy you wish you could bottle and sell, and her positivity is infectious. She is a strong voice and advocate for kids and puts their needs first. Stephanie will be a champion for our kids and our schools. I highly recommend Steph for PPS School Board position as you would be hard pressed to find a more qualified candidate.

Debi Adamski, PPS Teacher and Neighbor: I have taught in the PPS school district for over twenty years and strongly endorse Stephanie.  As a former teacher of all three of Stephanie’s amazing kids, I got to know her very well. When any issues have arisen in the school community, Stephanie is quick to advocate and initiate change in a respectful, equity driven manner. Stephanie is a quick thinker with amazing problem solving skills with an enormous heart who also thinks of the big picture. These are traits that are very refreshing in the current climate and I would love to have her serve on the School Board. She is raising three of the most thoughtful, kind, respectful and open minded children and is there to support anyone needing it.  

Candi Bielman, PPS Teacher: Stephanie is an exceptional leader, problem solver, and advocate for our schools and community. I have had the privilege of knowing her for several years, and in that time, I have seen her dedication, compassion, and tireless work to support children, families, and educators.

I first met Stephanie as a parent in my classroom, and from the start, her deep care for all students was evident. She was always willing to lend a hand—volunteering in the classroom, organizing experiences like a field trip to the judges’ chambers, and ensuring students had opportunities to learn beyond the traditional setting. She doesn’t wait for change; she makes it happen.

Beyond the classroom, Stephanie is a hands-on leader in the community. Whether coaching soccer, leading OBOB teams, or supporting neighborhood families, she is always there to help, encourage, and inspire. As a mother of three, she instinctively understands the needs of students and families and works to ensure every child has access to the resources and support they deserve.

PPS would be incredibly fortunate to have her on the school board. Her passion, leadership, and commitment to meaningful change make her the ideal candidate, and I wholeheartedly endorse her for the position.

Kate Brandy, (former) PPS teacher and (current) small business owner: I've never met a person who can accomplish, celebrate, and advocate more in one day than Stephanie Engelsman. Supremely positive and tough as nails, Stephanie uses her energy for good as an attorney, neighbor, community member, animal love, union member, coach, mom, and friend. You want Stephanie on your side. Whether picketing with teachers in a downpour or collecting winter coats for kids, Stephanie brings passion and joy to the work of growing good humans. Her reach is wide, her energy ... seemingly limitless. She'd made an extraordinary School Board member.

Sarah Feldman, Teacher, PPS Parent and Direct Neighbor to Stephanie: You absolutely have my endorsement!! You are always willing to lend a helping hand and your ability to juggle numerous tasks at once is impressive! Your leadership skills come through in a daily basis and you are wonderful advocate for children, families, neighbors and our community.

Jane Corry, Retired Multnomah County Library, Belmont Branch, Children's Librarian & Direct Neighbor to Stephanie: I have admired Steph for some years now. She is always willing to help out. When we were having a difficult time she brought over dinner on several occasions. She shares her eggs with the neighhood. For the last 3 years I have helped her coach her kids 3 OBOB teams. I have enjoyed her way with both the kids and parents.  She gives me more credit than I deserve, the true mark of a good leader. 

Karla Gill, Community Speech Language Pathologist & PPS Parent (Markham Elementary): Stephanie has been a leader in our community for years already! She has the personality and fortitude to enact positive changes within the PPS district. If ever there was a time for strong leadership, it is NOW, please vote for Stephanie!

Elizabeth Lannigan, PPS teacher: I highly recommend Stephanie for the School Board position because of the numerous strengths she will bring to the position. She is a strong believer in public education, is active in her children's daily school life, and is active in many school functions. Stephanie brings wisdom and integrity while being a strong advocate for meeting the needs of all students.

Amanda Macindoe, PPS teacher & PPS parent

Jennifer Smesrud, Preschool owner / teacher

Julia M. Allen, Ph.D. & Jane B. Cedar, P.T., M.S., Direct Neighbors to Stephanie: We are writing in support of Stephanie's candidacy for a position on the Portland Public Schools Board, zone 6.
Steph and her family have been our neighbors for over ten years. During that time, we have consistently admired her high energy, excellent problem-solving abilities, and solid decision-making. She clearly knows when an occasion demands a strong response and when it does not.  Her household—directly across the street from ours—is a happy one. 

Steph is socially engaging and has been instrumental in building a village-like network within our neighborhood, creating safe events for the children, arranging block parties to enable adult connections, and establishing a texting list for easy communications. During the pandemic, she initiated a practice of neighbors helping each other with grocery shopping and other errands.

As a parent of three students enrolled at Abernethy Elementary, Steph has been actively involved in supporting school activities, serving as a judge for the Oregon Battle of the Books and encouraging neighbors to volunteer, as well. 

As retired educators, we believe that Steph would be an exceptionally intelligent and caring presence on the PPS Board.

Mary Darin, former PPS speech language pathologist and lead union representative for PPS speech language pathologists, and PPS parent: Stephanie stands out as someone who doesn’t just talk about change—she makes it happen. She has a rare ability to turn thoughtful ideas into real improvements for her community.

She’s deeply committed to reducing special education caseloads and class sizes—two of the most effective ways to improve student outcomes, close achievement gaps, and retain educators.

At a time when PPS is weighed down by administrative costs and ineffective initiatives, Stephanie is focused on what matters: putting more staff where they’re needed most—serving students. Her priorities reflect what educators have been calling for. She listens, acts, and delivers.

Julie Randall, preschool teacher & PPS parent

Kathy Brown, preschool teacher

Sonora Thirdgill, Basketball Coach and Parent

PPS Board Members, Current & Former, Support Stephanie

Board Chair, Eddie Wang

Board Vice-Chair, Michelle DePass

Current Board Member, Patte Sullivan

Current Zone 6 Director (not running for re-election) and Mult. Cty. Commissioner, Julia Brim-Edwards

Pam Knowles

Mike Rosen

Ruth Adkins

Steve Griffith

Amy Kohnstamm

Bill Scott

Carol Turner

David Wynde

PPS Households Support Stephanie

Ben Munson, PPS Parent (Abernethy & Hosford M.S.): Stephanie's differentiator? Her unbelievable reserve of driven energy.

Devin Arthurs, Real Estate Broker and PPS Parent: Having known Stephanie for 5 years, as a fellow classroom parent, friend, and head soccer coach, I can attest personally to her passion for our children's education and overall wellbeing, both inside and outside of the classroom. Her devotion to creating an inclusive, positive, and rewarding environment within our children's soccer team is matched by her advocacy for our children's growth, education, health, and overall wellness and success in their classrooms and school. She is a focused, driven, and compassionate force for good in our community, and will absolutely be an impactful catalyst for the changes necessary to effect and improve the outcome we desire for our children and communities.

Mike Schwarzenberger, PPS parent and Neighbor to Stephanie: Steph is extremely compassionate about

our children's future and has the skills, vision and drive to get it done. Steph is not one to mince words and knowing her over the past 7 years there is no other neighbor I would expect to get more done for our schools. If you want a person who is deeply invested in public schools and has the skills and abilities to make them thrive, vote for Steph, our kids deserve it. 

Samantha Albery, Direct Neighbor to Stephanie and PPS Parent: Stephanie is the type of person who seems to have endless energy and she directs that energy into supporting kids and the entire school community. Stephanie is a true advocate for kids - advocating for them to have the freedom to be kids. This includes when they are young and silly, when they are just a bit "too old" for play structures, but should really still have access, and when they are just a bit older than that and need support making good choices. Stephanie is the advocate we all need to help improve Portland's schools.

Anna DiBenedetto, PPS parent: I can't think of a better School Board representative than you. You constantly amaze me with your kindness, energy and enthusiasm for helping out the kids, and not just your own. I am grateful that my family has gotten to benefit from your strong and steady leadership over the last 4 years as you have coached our girls in soccer. You continue to amaze me with your dedication, so this comes as no surprise, but you are an absolute wonder woman in my book. I can't wait to see the positive influence that you will have on the school board. We all know PPS needs leaders like you!

Jessica Frank, PPS parent: I'm proud to endorse Stephanie Engelsman for school board. As a dedicated lawyer, Stephanie brings a sharp mind and commitment to justice, which she will apply to
ensure our school policies are fair, transparent, and student-focused. Her experience as a soccer coach shows her ability to lead, motivate, and work collaboratively with both students and parents to foster a positive, supportive environment.

As a mom, she understands firsthand the importance of creating an educational experience that nurtures every child’s potential. Her warmth, approachability, and genuine care make her an ally to all families, regardless of background. She’s a trusted friend who will listen, advocate, and fight for what’s best for our kids and our community.

Stephanie is the kind of leader our school district needs—one who combines expertise with compassion and a deep commitment to the well-being of every student. I have no doubt she will serve with integrity and work tirelessly to make our schools even better for all of us. Please join me in supporting her for school board!

Meredith Barrett & Aaron Stoertz (Abernethy Elementary) & Abernethy Bike Bus Founder & Lead

Amber & Rob Kinney, PPS Parents (Maplewood Elementary) & Maplewood Bike Bus Lead

Kim Mason, PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary)

Juliette Humsi, PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary & Hosford M.S.)

Gabe Paez, PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary)

Dr. Lula Plumb, PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary)

Dr. Christine & Sean Barnett, PPS Parents (Abernethy Elementary)

Heather & Paul Noel, PPS Parents (Abernethy Elementary)

Kristin Mullady, PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary & Hosford M.S.)

Amanda Macindoe PPS Parent (Scott Elementary)

Eve Bernfeld, PPS Parent (Chief Joseph Elementary)

Elise Parker, PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary)

Kerry Lionadh, PPS Parent and Special Education Advocate

Beth Burns & Nate Enkjer, PPS Parents (Sunnyside K-8 & Hosford M.S.) & Community Activists

Sarah Feldman & Audrey Wang, PPS Parents (Woodstock Elementary & Cleveland H.S.)

Sarah Van Winkle, PPS Parent (ACCESS Academy)

Kate Brandy & Der Lovett, PPS Parents (Abernethy Elementary) & Small Business owners

Ashlee Albies PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary & Hosford M.S.) & Civil Rights Attorney

Jeremy Lees PPS Parent (Abernethy Elementary & Hosford M.S.)

Jessica & Dr. Nema Nabavizadeh PPS Parents (Abernethy Elementary & Hosford M.S.)

Kary Rappaport, PPS Parent (Abernethy) & Small Business owner & Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Kimberly and Neal Weingart, PPS Parents (Woodlawn)

Portlanders Support Stephanie

Former Oregon State Representative (NW and SW Portland), Chris Beck

Xiao & Shia Fan, Parent of Toddlers and Direct Neighbor to Stephanie: We are writing in support of Steph's candidacy for a position on the Portland Public Schools Board, zone 6.

Steph is a force-of-nature community leader and people-connector. She organizes most of our neighborhood events, and she's inspired us and other neighbors to host as well. She always knows what's going on in the neighborhood, and proactively keeps us in the loop on relevant topics.

Steph is always there when you need her, and she gets things done. We go to her for everything from airport runs, to house-sitting, to general recommendations. She once changed our broken car battery for us while we were out of town on vacation, so that she could move it out of the way for maintenance workers. Even when she can't help personally, Steph always manages to connect us to a neighbor who can.

Steph's values and parenting shine through in her daughters. They are growing into community leaders themselves. They taught our 3-year old how to ride a balance bike, and she looks up to them for her other interests, from chalk drawings, to roller skating, to picking berries, to making daisy chains, to reading. Our 1-year old is just starting out, and she's happily making chalk drawings with them already too.

Steph knows how to support children, and we'd love to see more children growing like hers.

Sherry Lourance & Sami Wanner, Owners, Dog Tired Adventures

Greg Kamerer, Direct Neighbor to Stephanie: I can think of nobody I would trust more than Stephanie to make excellent decisions to improve PPS. And I relish the thought of being able to discuss with someone on the board any bond issues that come up for a vote.

Irene & John Franklin, Parents and Direct Neighbors to Stephanie: Stephanie is a fierce advocate for both doing the right thing and building community; we are lucky to have moved in next door ten years ago. Steph is one of those, real, down to earth you can count on her to do as she says people. Her word is true and her passion for strong, local public education is clear – her children are in the minority on our block, attending our local schools.

From a handmade sign encouraging those who pass to consider serving as a jurors because we do need juries of our peers, coordinating neighborhood gatherings, organizing a crew to attend a protest, collecting neighbors ballots to deliver to the library, coaching girls soccer or helping out a neighbor whenever called upon that makes her stand out as an reliable advocate for the Portland community.

My family and I strongly endorse Stephanie for school board.

Proud to be your neighbor.

Mikey Shethar, Parent to a Toddler and Neighbor to Stephanie

Jane Pullman

Doug Tichenor & Audrey Huber, Parents to Toddlers

Jose Garcia

Jessica Morines

Eva Hamer, Program Lead, Pro-Animal Future

Vika Safarian, Parent to a Toddler and Public Defender